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Manchester City and Arsenal are set to battle for West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans in January.

Both clubs were heavily linked with the center half during last summer’s transfer window but it was understood that only a huge transfer fee would have tempted West Brom into considering the sale of Evans.

The Baggies stood strong despite serious interest from City and Arsenal and even rejected an opening offer from the Premier League leaders.

Following the change of manager and what has been a poor start to the season even by their standards, the club may not be able to hold on to it’s top players when the transfer window reopens next year.

The Telegraph via City Watch claims Arsenal retains its interest in Evans and will again look to sign the Northern Island international during the winter window.

Wenger has largely played with three at the back this season and has deployed Nacho Monreal who is a left back at centre defense. The Gunners also let Gabriel leave for Valencia during last summer’s transfer window without signing a replacement.

Mertesacker retires at the end of the season and Arsenal will definitely well be in the market for a replacement. We could then make a move for Evans if given an encouragement.

It’s being speculated that Pardew could be willing to sacrifice Evans for £30m to raise funds to strengthen his squad in the January transfer window.

£30m for a 29 year old would be irrational, however Wenger is a long-term admirer of Evans, having followed him since his days at Manchester United. We have tried to sign him two summers in a row so I doubt we won’t make a move if he becomes available but not for the price being quoted.